Why a skills assessment matters
Most skilled visas, such as subclass 189, 190, 491 and some 186 applications, require a positive skills assessment. It confirms that your qualifications and work experience meet Australian standards for your nominated occupation.
Finding the right assessing authority
Each occupation has a designated assessing authority. IT roles often go to ACS, engineers to Engineers Australia, many professional roles to VETASSESS and trades to TRA or approved bodies. Choosing the right occupation code is critical.
Preparing strong evidence
Provide certified qualifications, detailed reference letters with duties and hours, payslips and tax records. Duties must match the occupation description. Small inconsistencies can cause refusals or reduced experience being recognised.
Common assessing authorities
| Occupation group | Typical assessing authority |
|---|---|
| ICT professionals | ACS |
| Engineers | Engineers Australia |
| Many professional roles | VETASSESS |
| Trades | TRA |
| Nurses | ANMAC |
- Pick your occupation code carefully as it shapes your entire migration pathway.
- Ensure reference letters list duties that match the official occupation description.
- Keep the assessment valid until your visa application is lodged.
- Account for any years of experience deducted by the assessing authority.
- Let Myra Visa check your documents before you submit the skills assessment.
Need personalised advice? Speak with Myra Visa, led by Australian Registered Migration Agent (MARN 2519116) and New Zealand Licensed Immigration Adviser (IAA 202507335) Deep Mehta. Book an appointment or browse more visa guides.